Martine’s Wines is proud to announce the addition of the historic estate, Domaine Santa Duc of Gigondas, to the company’s portfolio.

“We have found success recently introducing exciting yet unknown wines to the US market, but to have a domaine of the esteem of Santa Duc join us after having been a leader in the Southern Rhone for over 30 years is thrilling,” said Gregory Castells, President of Martine’s Wines.

Domaine Santa Duc, established in 1874, found widespread acclaim in the United States after a longtime partnership with Robert Kacher Selections. “It is thanks to Bobby that people in this country were able to discover just how good these wines are,” said Castells.

“Gigondas is an appellation we have long wished to represent,” said Damien Carney, Director of Sales for Direct Markets. “We love the wines and we are excited to share the Santa Duc story.”

The domaine has seen a resurgence in this past generation under the careful watch of vigneron Yves Gras. Simon Field MW, Wine Buyer for Berry Brothers & Rudd in Londonsays it best:

Domaine Santa Duc is one of the reference points of winemaking in Gigondas as well as one of the model estates in the Southern Rhone. The Duke of Gigondas, Yves Gras, is a charismatic and eloquent champion for these two great villages, easing them out of the shadow of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and into the light of a recognition which is far removed from an outdated reputation for rustic tannins and indulgent alcohol levels.

“They bring a strong focus on the terroir of the Southern Rhone,” said Pete Monteleone, Director of Purchasing. “The wines are lifted, polished and elegant—especially for the region. They are artistic in their creation.”

“Santa Duc fits right in with the Martine’s portfolio,” said Castells. “They are pushing to a style that is rooted in traditional winemaking while creating wines that are approachable and balanced. They are delicious.”

The Domaine Santa Duc wines made their Martine’s Wines debut at our Grand Tasting 2017 events in Chicago and New York. Here is a segment from our interview with the domaine’s sales director, Remi Cognet.